When was the last time you were in the awe of the natural greatness? Our planet is truly a magnificent gem we sometimes take for granted. If you want a jaw-dropping experience, take a look at the ultimate list of the best nature documentaries! 2020 is a clear example of how quickly things can be changed and destroyed, and many of these nature series comes as a reminder that if we want to continue enjoying the magnificent nature, we have to take care of it while it still lasts. Let’s stream our top picks!
1. Planet Earth (2007) & Planet Earth II (2017)
What is it like? Let’s start with the basics – if you are a newbie to nature documentaries, this is your first go-to! The first series won four Emmys, including non-fiction series, cinematography, sound editing, and music. Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, the series was considered one of the best nature documentaries ever made.
Ten years later, the follow-up, Planet Earth II, continued a hypnotic beauty and was invited to take a look at some city-dwelling animals. After watching these, you will start wondering why haven’t you been into the best nature documentaries before.
Where to stream? 2007 – YouTube, Amazon, iTunes. 2017 – Amazon, iTunes
How long will it take? For the 2007 series – 9 hours (11 episodes, around 50 minutes each), for the 2017 series – 5 hours (6 episodes, about 50 minutes each).
2. Our Planet (2019)
What is it like? It is the first original nature documentary made by Netflix, showing not only the beauty of our planet but also focusing on climate change. 50 countries were visited during the filmmaking process to capture different habitats – desserts, jungles, forests, and ocean world. It invites us to explore the breathtaking scenery and calls for action to protect it.
Where to stream? Netflix
How long will it take? About 6 hours (8 episodes, around 50 minutes each).
3. Night on Earth (2020)
What is it like? Netflix does everything to keep us up at night! It is not like animals sleep at night, they have the whole life going on after the sun goes down. Using low light camera technology, ‘Night on Earth’ is shot entirely at night, allowing to explore nocturnal wildlife activities. If you find yourself a night creature, this is perfect for you. One of the best nature documentaries there is so far!
Where to stream? Netflix
How long will it take? 5 hours (6 episodes, around 50 minutes each).
4. Dancing with the Birds (2019)
What is it like? If you find your dating life mysterious, check the mating process and rituals of multiple bird species: colorful feathers, strange dances, and methods to attract that only one. Maybe you will hear something of use for your next date!
Where to stream? Netflix
How long will it take? 51 minutes.
5. 72 Cutest Animals
What is it like? If you think that yet another nature documentary on Netflix will only make you fall asleep, you can be sure to get the cuteness overload from watching this one. ‘Fluff and Stuff’ or ‘Bouncing Buddies’ will melt your heart and bring lightness into your everyday routine. If you have some kids around, this is perfect for a movie night!
Where to stream? Netflix
How long will it take? 4 hours (8 episodes, around 27 minutes).
6. Blackfish (2013)
What is it like? A dark, yet magnificent story about killer whales, namely a performing orca Tilikum, who has taken the lives of several people while in captivity. It triggers a discussion about the effects on the species while keeping them locked for entertainment purposes. After the release of the detailed documentary of such intelligent creatures, the public started boycotting Seaworld and the entertainment aquarium industry. Do not expect light and pleasant emotions after watching this.
Where to stream? Amazon, iTunes, Hulu
How long will it take? 83 minutes.
7. Chasing Coral (2017)
What is it like? The title itself reveals that a documentary is trying to catch the bits of previously enormous coral reef and its ecosystem while it is not too late. It is an alarming wake-up call, showing how global warming could destroy marine life forever soon.
Where to stream? Netflix
How long will it take? 1h 30 minutes.
8. The Ivory Game (2016)
What is it like? If you haven’t heard it, Leonardo DiCaprio is not only a famous actor but also an environmental activist. This Netflix’s documentary was produced by him, exposing the elephant tusk poaching that drives the ivory trade. For the documentary production, filmmakers went undercover to gain internal knowledge of the whole trafficking crisis. It feels like a captivating thriller, however, don’t forget it is a true story.
Where to stream? Netflix
How long will it take? 1 hour 52 minutes.
9. Jane (2017)
What is it like? It is a heart-warming story about Jane Goodall, a well-known primatology scientist whose chimpanzee research opened people’s eyes to understanding the natural world. 100 hours of archival footage that take us 50 years back and shows off not only the private lives of chimpanzees but also gives a peek on how the research and documentation are carried out.
Where to stream? Disney+, Amazon, iTunes
How long will it take? 1 hour 30 minutes.
10. Chasing Ice (2012)
What is it like? It is not only the corals we are chasing while it still lasts. Jeff Orlowski documents the years of climate change using time-lapse cameras. In a couple of minutes, we can see the impact we made for our Blue Planet. A powerful and sobering experience on your screen calls us for action. Are you ready to make a change?
Where to stream? Amazon, iTunes
How long will it take? 1 hour 30 minutes.
Spend less than two days in total, watching the best a human’s eye has captured about our home. Prepare to laugh, shed a tear, and be amazed by the beauty that we sometimes forget to cherish.
